Most ukuleles use standard tuning:

• 4th string: G
• 3rd string: C
• 2nd string: E
• 1st string: A

When you hold the ukulele in playing position, the G string is the top string (closest to your face).

There are two common G strings:

• High-G (re-entrant): the G string is pitched higher than the C string. This is the most common setup.
• Low-G (linear): the G string is pitched lower than the C string. This gives a deeper, fuller sound.

Both are still G–C–E–A. The difference is the pitch of the G string.

1. Turn your tuner on and set it to chromatic (or “ukulele” if available).
2. Pluck one string at a time (4th to 1st works well: G → C → E → A).
3. Watch the tuner:
   • If the note is flat (too low), tighten the tuning peg.
   • If the note is sharp (too high), loosen the tuning peg.
4. Repeat once more — strings can shift slightly as you tune the others.

Beginner tip: Tune slowly and make small adjustments. Large turns can overshoot the note.

Tuning by ear is a useful skill, but it takes practice. A simple approach:

1. Use a reference note for one string (a tuner, piano, or tuning app).
2. Tune the remaining strings to match the correct intervals.
3. Play a simple chord (like C) and listen for a clean, “in-tune” sound.

If you’re new, it’s best to start with a tuner and slowly train your ear over time.

• New strings: they stretch and slip for the first few days. Tune often until they settle.
• Cheap friction pegs: may slip slightly. A gentle re-tune is normal.
• Temperature changes: heat/cold can shift tuning.
• Over-tightening: can cause strings to jump sharp or break.

Most beginners experience this — it improves once strings are settled and tuning becomes routine.

• Every time you play (quick check is enough).
• If strings are new: tune, play 5 minutes, tune again.
• If it sounds “off” during practice: re-check the A string first.

• Standard tuning: G – C – E – A
• G string is the top string when holding the ukulele
• Tune slowly with small adjustments
• Re-check after tuning all strings
• New strings need frequent re-tuning for a few days